Pfeffer PR AW12 Press Day

Deep in darkest Dalston lies Pfeffer PR’s headquarters and their AW12 Press day proved to be well worth the trek out East. Pfeffer represent a clutch of hip young London-based designers who all have that signature neo East-End vibe.

Helen at Pfeffer gave me the tour of the impressive and vibrant collections on show.

It was love at first sight with Lost Property of London’s unique line of bags. Made in the UK and the brainchild and creations of designer Katie Bell, Lost Property of London’s products are eco-conscious bags, fashionable yet practical and made using the up-cycling concept. The stand-outs were the bang-on-trend rucksacks made from Barbour’s factory cut-offs which Bell buys and then incorporates into her designs. Also from this line were clever bags, clutches and iPad cases made from fair-trade coffee-bean sacks! The line features designs for both women and men and are perfect for the modern-day eco-warrior or street-smart fashionista with a conscience.

Barbara Boner, another London based designer, is definitely a name to know for accessory lovers. Her stunning bags are all hand made from skins and furs, and each piece screams STATEMENT! Design features include fringing, contrasting heavy-metal spiked chain straps for instant edge and cool, the use of python skin and on-trend stingray clutches. The line also features unique bags decorated with hand-sewn designs, iPad cases cleverly doubling as clutches, and exquisite Venetian masks that will be sure fire editorial hits and will also look great for anyone trying to vamp up their evening look.

Thu Thu is a bohemian line of ready-to-wear of bold designs and colours, featuring leopard prints and the use of quirky embroidering. Reminiscent of perhaps Missoni on acid, Thu Thu caters for the girl who likes to break from the norm.  The leopard-print jeans are a great way to stand out and break from the blue/black. Thu Thu’s Camel cash wool coat, with embroidered lapels and contrast lining, is the perfect transitional coat for autumn all at a great price point for such original and well-made pieces.

 

If you are planning an escape to somewhere sunny and sandy this year, no doubt you will be looking for hip beachwear. We Are Handsome’s chic line of and beachwear has a refreshing selection that combines traditional swimsuit with the art of graphic design. The label’s 2012 collection incorporates everything you need to take you from the beach to the poolside, to a night on the town. The range includes swimsuits, bikinis, bodysuits, cover-ups , halter dresses, skirts and minis, all featuring bold graphic prints that include animal designs, Americana and tropical beach scenes.

 Ian Michael Turner

Find out more about Pfeffer PR’s portfolio of distinctly British designers by clicking here.